Journey Danube Express Train

Danube Express

Introduction/History

The train started service with its beautiful deluxe carriages in 2008. All routes either start or go through Budapest, Hungary, where the train is headquartered. The train runs as far north as Gdansk and as far  east as Istanbul. Journeys include Krakow and Warsaw in Poland, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania. Journeys can be combined; one example is Warsaw to Budapest to Istanbul.

 

The Danube Express wishes a more intimate and deluxe experience, and plans to invite just 42 passengers on board, a significant reduction from last year. This will greatly improve the quality of the on-board experience and off-train sightseeing.

Accommodations

The deluxe sleeping carriages offer the best train accommodations in Europe. Private compartments are air conditioned, with private, ensuite facilities and two lower beds that fold up into seating during the day. They are roomy at 83.3 square feet, including the bathroom. Singles are accommodated in “classic” cabins, which are 33.4 square feet, with bunk-style beds that fold into seating by day; shower and toilet are down the hall. There are windows that open throughout the train, a boon for photographers.

Dining

Dining is delicious but not fancy.  Dress is smart casual. Gourmet meals and white-glove service are not the aim here; meals are hearty local specialties such as goose, mashed potatoes and braised red cabbage and service is friendly and experienced. Staff members do not speak much English, but they are pleasant and cheerful. As one staff member said to a recent IRT traveler: "We are smiling."

Lounge Cars

The lounge car is spacious, with room for most of the train’s passengers. The atmosphere is friendly, and the brandy—the local specialty—is tasty. Wine and beer on the train are included with the price of the journey; spirits are not included. The pianist, Apollo, is talented and jolly; the songbook on board seems two inches thick stuffed with every song you ever thought of singing.

Other

The itineraries are designed to take you to the heart of Central and Eastern Europe in comfort and style. The off-train sightseeing calls for plenty of walking, often over cobblestones and uneven pavement. None of the compartments on the train is handicapped accessible. Note that no drinks are included off the train except for water on the touring buses. Gratuities are not included in the price of your program.